Dr. Wiedmer’s involvement with the Indiana Teacher of the Year began with her doctoral dissertation. This dissertation was the first national research study conducted on state and national Teachers of the Year. Dr. Wiedmer was named Honorary National State Teacher of the Year (NSTOY) in 1983 and subsequently was Executive Director of NSTOY, Director of Public Relations, Treasurer, and Director of Membership of NSTOY. She has been involved with the Teacher of the Year program since 1979 and continues to work with Indiana State and national award winners and as well as conduct research to foster teaching excellence and recognition of outstanding teachers.